Ward Lumber awards grant funds to two employees affected by Irene

September 24, 2011

JAY - Two grant checks were presented to employees of Ward Lumber in Jay from Lumber Industry for Today on Friday.

Travis Thwaits and Dustin Frederick, yard employees of 3-and-a-half years and six months, respectively, both had such significant flooding in their homes that the town building inspector declared them uninhabitable. A photo accompanying Travis's application shows massive piles of debris on the front lawn garbage bags filled with ruined belongings, and heaps of carpeting, fixtures, and drywall. The house appears to have been gutted and it is uncertain whether it can be repaired. Dustin's photos show similar devastating aftermath and floodwaters several feet high through the neighborhood.

LIFT is an industry-specific fund and member benefit established to provide immediate financial assistance and peer support to Northeast Retail Lumber Association (NRLA) member employees impacted by a fire or natural disaster resulting in a loss of shelter. The LIFT program brings funds into the town of Jay and the Adirondacks from the rest of New York and New England from other lumber dealers. Jay Ward, President of Ward Lumber, says "The LIFT program allows Ward Lumber to leverage their contribution, which brings funds to our area. Ward Lumber will be donating 25 percent of the LIFT gift, so the grant program matches Ward Lumber's donation three to one."

Article Photos

Ward Lumber officials present two of its employees, Travis Thwaits and Dustin Frederick, who both had such significant flooding in their homes that FEMA that the town building inspector declared them uninhabitable, with grant checks Friday at its store in Jay. (Photo provided)

LIFT will provide up to $2,000 as a tax free, debt-free gift to a member employee who has a qualifying loss.